Mercersburg, with a strong athletics program and Olympian alumni, has long valued the strength of the body as well as the mind. Physical education here is a vital part of the total school curriculum for all students. Programs are designed for individuals to increase physical compe-tence, assess health related fitness components and promote independence. The goals are for students to enjoy physical activity and develop a life-long positive approach to physical activity. In accordance with the recommendations from the American Pediatrics Association, the National Education Association and the Surgeon General, Mercersburg’s Physical Education Program is designed to meet the minimal standards of at least one hour of vigorous activity four days per week.

Students must pass a yearlong course in physical education during each year of enrollment to graduate. New students must participate in an approved Large Group Activity for at least one term during their first year of enrollment. Large Group Activities include interscholastic athletic teams (including managers), Stony Batter Productions (including tech crew), Percussion Plus, Dance Production, and Outdoor Education.

Students not involved in these group activities are considered “out of season,” and they are required to schedule at least four sessions of an approved physical activity each week. Students can choose from a variety of fun activities including strength training and conditioning, ski club, yoga, ultimate frisbee and tae kwan do.

Physical Education Department Faculty